Blog

Maintaining a healthy vegan diet: EPA and DHA

We are constantly reminded of the many health benefits associated with essential fatty acids in the diet, but what about DHA and EPA?

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) are a group of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids which are also important for health and vitality.

Research supports a central role for DHA in normal brain and visual functioning, and both EPA and DHA have been linked to regular heart functioning (1). In addition, mothers supplementing with EPA and DHA during pregnancy and breast feeding could aid brain and visual development for the baby (2)(3).

So now you’ve heard the health benefits, where would these omega-3 fatty acids normally be found?

Fish provides a good source of EPA and DHA, meanwhile alpha-linolenicacid (ALA) found in flaxseeds and walnuts, can be converted into EPA and DHA in the body, however this process can be limited.

An option for vegans and vegetarians is to nourish their diet with an additional supplement containing EPA and DHA, which won’t be found in most seed oils such as flaxseed or hemp.

Well here’s the good news, Viridian Nutrition has formulated a ‘Vegan EPA and DHA Liquid’ which provides a natural vegan-friendly source of EPA and DHA derived from sustainably grown marine algae. It also includes a combination of essential omega fatty acids 3, 6 & 9 derived from South American chia seeds.

The Vegan EPA and DHA Liquid is flavoured with natural orange oil to offer a palatable supplement, providing 225 mg of EPA and DHA per ml.

The liquid can be blended into your morning smoothie, mixed into your favourite juice or water, or taken straight off the spoon! For children aged 1-12 years the dosage should be halved. So enjoy!

Here at Viridian Nutrition, we choose to avoid added sugars, colourings or artificial flavourings making its products as clean and pure as they can be. Instead we prefer slow manufacture, allowing colour variations from batch-to-batch and season-to-season.

The information contained in this article is not intended to treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a health practitioner. Please consult a qualified health practitioner if you have a pre-existing health condition or are currently taking medication. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet.